Morelia, Michoacán - Severe weather hit Morelia this Sunday, as torrential rain left at least six areas flooded and caused damage to local infrastructure, particularly affecting vehicles and homes. The rain, which started around 1:00 PM, was confirmed by the Coordinación Municipal de Protección Civil to have resulted in significant encharcamientos (water accumulation) at numerous locations, including Avenida Camelinas and Calle Platanares de Ziracuaretiro.
Reports indicate rainfall rates peaked at 22.3 mm/h, leading to flooding at ten notable points across the city. The hardest-hit locations included Avenida Camelinas, Calzada Ventura Puente, and Calzada La Huerta near commercial centers. Residents of the Vasco de Quiroga neighborhood reported alarming levels of water entering their homes, with some streets generating standing water at sidewalk level.
One of the most concerning consequences of the downpour was the emergence of a significant sinkhole on Curtidores de Teremendo, located within the Quinceo area. This sinkhole poses serious risks for local traffic and may complicate access through the heavily affected sector. Thankfully, local authorities reported no injuries or fatalities as of the last update.
While the weather conditions remained precarious, with intense rain and occasional hail reported particularly on the route to Pátzcuaro, sections of Morelia experienced moderate downpours. Nonetheless, prep work by the Protección Civil ensured emergency measures were deployed swiftly to mitigate the impacts of the rainfall. Authorities urged residents to stay alert as additional rain could exacerbate existing flooding scenarios.
The southern areas of Morelia were identified as particularly vulnerable to flooding due to their geography. Despite prior predictions from the Servicio Meteorológico Nacional, the scale of the rainfall took many residents by surprise. Streets flooded leading to collapsed traffic, leaving many vehicles stranded. Multiple car owners faced damages as the roads transformed rapidly under the weight of the rainwater.
To combat the flooding, the Organismo Operador de Agua Potable, Alcantarillado y Saneamiento (OOAPAS) activated pumps and drainage systems at multiple key locations. Areas such as Carlos Salazar, Higueras, and Prados Verdes were under supervision to prevent any overflow or additional flooding incidents.
Authorities are maintaining constant vigilance. "La Coordinación de Protección Civil en Michoacán informó que, ante la contingencia, se desplegaron brigadas para brindar atención y auxilio a la población afectada," signifying their immediate response and resource allocation to affected communities.
To summarize, the severe weather has significantly impacted the municipality of Morelia, creating challenging conditions for residents. The heavy rainfall not only disrupted daily life but raised urgent concerns over infrastructural integrity and public safety. The community is advised to stay informed and cautious as emergency teams continue to monitor weather conditions and potential additional rainfall risks.
